{"id":2023645,"date":"2026-07-02T16:11:18","date_gmt":"2026-07-02T13:11:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2023645"},"modified":"2026-07-02T16:11:18","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T13:11:18","slug":"max-verstappen-issues-blunt-response-to-mclaren-f1-switch-speculation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2023645","title":{"rendered":"Max Verstappen issues blunt response to McLaren F1 switch speculation"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>Max Verstappen issues blunt response to McLaren F1 switch speculation<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Max Verstappen was not in the mood to talk about rumours linking him with McLaren.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Lewis Larkam , Adam Cooper<\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-07-02T17:11:18+01:00\">02 Jul 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Verstappen has been linked with McLaren<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Max Verstappen provided a blunt response to questions about his Formula 1 future amid growing speculation linking him with a sensational switch to McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>During the Austrian Grand Prix weekend it emerged that Verstappen\u2019s management team had met with McLaren CEO Zak Brown in the paddock for what were described as being \u201cpreliminary talks\u201d about the possibility of a deal.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Four-time world champion Verstappen is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028 but has an exit clause in his current deal that would enable him to join another team in 2027 if he is not inside the top two in the drivers\u2019 championship by an unspecified date in August &#8211; believed to be during F1\u2019 summer break.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Brown has not completely shut the door on a move for Verstappen<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As things stand, the 28-year-old Dutchman is on course to trigger that clause barring a major form swing across the next three races &#8211; including this weekend\u2019s British Grand Prix.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The rumours of a possible move to McLaren at some point in the future were put to Verstappen during Thursday\u2019s media day at Silverstone, but he was in no mood to entertain such speculation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I&#8217;m not going to involve myself in that,&#8221; Verstappen told media, including <em>Crash.net<\/em>, when asked if there was any truth to the speculation.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-06bbccc9d45da1d1be764ad8de9758246f17ca5df960570a3c62014b1044512a\">  George Russell reveals bizarre dream and plans to \u2018steal\u2019 Landostand   &#8216;I would love Max Verstappen to be my team-mate&#8217; &#8211; Lando Norris reacts to McLaren rumours <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cI said what I wanted to say already before. If there&#8217;s something new or something that changes, you will hear it from me, not from someone else writing it, right? I just focus on the job that I have with my team. We are on the way up, so that&#8217;s really nice to see.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI had a really positive weekend in Austria, we just try to improve from there further. I know of course it can be quite tough, there&#8217;s a lot of competition. But yeah, we are here just to try and go faster.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><strong>\u2018A lot of drivers want to come to McLaren!\u2019\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Reigning world champion Lando Norris was also asked about the meeting between McLaren and Verstappen\u2019s management during the earlier FIA drivers\u2019 press conference on Thursday.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-55b71e05f219f8ebbe62050afb5d909be197de46f37ad09a37382644cb0b5f40\">  Why Max Verstappen to McLaren is \u2018a tough one to call\u2019, according to Jenson Button   First Look: McLaren unveils striking new livery for the F1 British Grand Prix <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;To be honest, a lot of drivers want to come to McLaren. So I don&#8217;t know why you just highlight Max!\u201d Norris joked in response. &#8220;There&#8217;s quite a few others that I know that want to come as well. I mean, it&#8217;s a cool thing.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s a good thing that a four-time world champion wants to come on board and wants to &#8211; potentially! &#8211; join the team. I don&#8217;t know how much of it&#8217;s true, but it&#8217;s a cool thing.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;And if there&#8217;s an opportunity for me to drive with other people, it&#8217;s something I&#8217;ve always looked forward to. But it&#8217;s not a thing for now. It&#8217;s not a serious thing. And I&#8217;m also just excited for my future with McLaren. I&#8217;m still going to be here for many, many more years.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Could Verstappen and Norris end up as F1 team-mates?<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A major complication to any potential deal is that both Norris and his current team-mate Oscar Piastri are tied down to long-term contracts with McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>One would have to make way in order for there to be space to accommodate Verstappen, with a possible seat swap involving Piastri mooted as a potential solution.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Asked if he would back himself to beat Verstappen if the pair were teamed up, Norris replied: &#8220;I do believe I can &#8211; I think we just have to just word it carefully &#8211; beat any driver.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think what makes Max so incredible is how he is over the course of a season. Every single weekend, performing to the level that he does, is what&#8217;s impressive.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think a lot of drivers on the grid can go out and get a pole and can put in incredible laps. What makes people great and elite is performing at that level, but in every practice, every qualifying, every race, and I think that&#8217;s something that Max is able to do probably better than almost everyone.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I believe, whether it&#8217;s him or having a chance to go against Lewis [Hamilton] or Fernando [Alonso] any of the drivers that people know are some of the best, I think it&#8217;s a cool opportunity for me, at the same time, so excited for whatever may come my way in the future.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">F1<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">McLaren<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Lando Norris<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Max Verstappen<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Red Bull<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Lewis Hamilton reveals Ferrari F1 engine deficit to Mercedes and driver fears in WhatsApp group<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"item next\">\n<h3> Next <\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> George Russell reveals bizarre pre-F1 dream and plans to \u2018steal\u2019 Landostand<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-72466c6bec5901d29a2e2c9e531df4137d7e9e330741ed390b7979fd23360869\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Lewis Larkam<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">F1 Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p>Lewis regularly attends Grands Prix for Crash.net around the world. Often reporting on the action from the ground, Lewis tells the stories of the people who matter in the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-5fcaba0e0802bc26db27165c7a23b7edb907c5a1b4589d6a9855ea26f30a7e96\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&#8216;We&#8217;re not in the market&#8217; &#8211; McLaren boss responds to continued Max Verstappen speculation<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782817680\"> 30\/06\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-06\/xpb_1421454_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen in Austria\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Max Verstappen details Red Bull\u2019s \u201cvery big step forward\u201d with major F1 upgrade<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782813900\"> 30\/06\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-06\/xpb_1421680_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen celebrates in Austria\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Isack Hadjar enjoys first proper fight with F1&#8217;s &#8220;big boys&#8221;<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782748800\"> 29\/06\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-06\/xpb_1421609_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Hadjar went wheel-to-wheel with his F1 hero Hamilton \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Revealed: Who initiated Max Verstappen\u2019s shock McLaren F1 talks<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782747037\"> 29\/06\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-06\/si202606270388.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen&apos;s camp held talks with McLaren \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>F1 2026 British Grand Prix: How to watch for free in the UK<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782742760\"> 29\/06\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-06\/xpb_1359991_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Rain hit the 2025 British Grand Prix\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Bernie Ecclestone reveals the driver he would sign \u201cat whatever cost\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782738070\"> 29\/06\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-06\/xpb_1421676_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Ecclestone ran F1 until 2017\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"component-card-default block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<h2>Latest News<\/h2>\n<div class=\"component-blocks-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-b340779aa14ac80e6f7cad87d43a4df8b344b180b436b50b5493021ae154bca0\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>George Russell reveals bizarre dream and plans to \u2018steal\u2019 Landostand<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1783011590\"> 1h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421922_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&#8216;Silverstone is less special this year&#8217; &#8211; F1 stars echo regulation concerns<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1783009620\"> 1h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-04\/xpb_1360051_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-04\/xpb_1360051_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-04\/xpb_1360051_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Verstappen issues blunt response to McLaren F1 switch speculation <\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1783008678\"> 2h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Hamilton reveals Ferrari deficit and driver fears in WhatsApp group<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1783005555\"> 2h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421556_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Lewis Hamilton details battle to gain trust for Ferrari car changes<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1783001911\"> 3h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421861_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421861_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421861_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"component-card-default block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<h2>More News<\/h2>\n<div class=\"component-blocks-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-817dee2d357a551e209c0d2b825c7eab06d38c5c00e8055c6440fdb2c578c575\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Lewis Hamilton says he &#8216;misses Roscoe every day&#8217; ahead of first Silverstone race without beloved dog<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1783000680\"> 4h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/ros.png?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/ros.png?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/ros.png?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Bearman admits Austria form was a \u201cpunch in the face\u201d as Haas struggles emerge<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782998340\"> 4h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1420713_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1420713_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1420713_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Will Aston Martin upgrade impact Fernando Alonso F1 retirement decision?<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782995580\"> 5h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421772_hires.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421772_hires.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1421772_hires.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>F1 Lego cars return for Silverstone after Miami GP chaos<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782987960\"> 7h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/lego-hero-image.png?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/lego-hero-image.png?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/lego-hero-image.png?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Honda confirm F1 power unit upgrade for Dutch Grand Prix to aid Aston Martin recovery<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1782986700\"> 8h ago<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/shintaro-orihara-and-mike-krack-miami-grand-prix-sunday.JPG?height=270&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 270w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/shintaro-orihara-and-mike-krack-miami-grand-prix-sunday.JPG?height=180&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 180w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/shintaro-orihara-and-mike-krack-miami-grand-prix-sunday.JPG?height=90&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=1:1 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Max Verstappen was not in the mood to talk about rumours linking him with McLaren.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Max Verstappen provided a blunt response to questions about his Formula 1 future amid growing speculation linking him with a sensational switch to McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>During the Austrian Grand Prix weekend it emerged that Verstappen\u2019s management team had met with McLaren CEO Zak Brown in the paddock for what were described as being \u201cpreliminary talks\u201d about the possibility of a deal.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Four-time world champion Verstappen is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028 but has an exit clause in his current deal that would enable him to join another team in 2027 if he is not inside the top two in the drivers\u2019 championship by an unspecified date in August &#8211; believed to be during F1\u2019 summer break.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Brown has not completely shut the door on a move for Verstappen<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As things stand, the 28-year-old Dutchman is on course to trigger that clause barring a major form swing across the next three races &#8211; including this weekend\u2019s British Grand Prix.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The rumours of a possible move to McLaren at some point in the future were put to Verstappen during Thursday\u2019s media day at Silverstone, but he was in no mood to entertain such speculation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I&#8217;m not going to involve myself in that,&#8221; Verstappen told media, including <em>Crash.net<\/em>, when asked if there was any truth to the speculation.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-06bbccc9d45da1d1be764ad8de9758246f17ca5df960570a3c62014b1044512a\">  George Russell reveals bizarre dream and plans to \u2018steal\u2019 Landostand   &#8216;I would love Max Verstappen to be my team-mate&#8217; &#8211; Lando Norris reacts to McLaren rumours <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cI said what I wanted to say already before. If there&#8217;s something new or something that changes, you will hear it from me, not from someone else writing it, right? I just focus on the job that I have with my team. We are on the way up, so that&#8217;s really nice to see.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI had a really positive weekend in Austria, we just try to improve from there further. I know of course it can be quite tough, there&#8217;s a lot of competition. But yeah, we are here just to try and go faster.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><strong>\u2018A lot of drivers want to come to McLaren!\u2019\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Reigning world champion Lando Norris was also asked about the meeting between McLaren and Verstappen\u2019s management during the earlier FIA drivers\u2019 press conference on Thursday.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-55b71e05f219f8ebbe62050afb5d909be197de46f37ad09a37382644cb0b5f40\">  Why Max Verstappen to McLaren is \u2018a tough one to call\u2019, according to Jenson Button   First Look: McLaren unveils striking new livery for the F1 British Grand Prix <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;To be honest, a lot of drivers want to come to McLaren. So I don&#8217;t know why you just highlight Max!\u201d Norris joked in response. &#8220;There&#8217;s quite a few others that I know that want to come as well. I mean, it&#8217;s a cool thing.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s a good thing that a four-time world champion wants to come on board and wants to &#8211; potentially! &#8211; join the team. I don&#8217;t know how much of it&#8217;s true, but it&#8217;s a cool thing.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;And if there&#8217;s an opportunity for me to drive with other people, it&#8217;s something I&#8217;ve always looked forward to. But it&#8217;s not a thing for now. It&#8217;s not a serious thing. And I&#8217;m also just excited for my future with McLaren. I&#8217;m still going to be here for many, many more years.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Could Verstappen and Norris end up as F1 team-mates?<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A major complication to any potential deal is that both Norris and his current team-mate Oscar Piastri are tied down to long-term contracts with McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>One would have to make way in order for there to be space to accommodate Verstappen, with a possible seat swap involving Piastri mooted as a potential solution.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Asked if he would back himself to beat Verstappen if the pair were teamed up, Norris replied: &#8220;I do believe I can &#8211; I think we just have to just word it carefully &#8211; beat any driver.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think what makes Max so incredible is how he is over the course of a season. Every single weekend, performing to the level that he does, is what&#8217;s impressive.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think a lot of drivers on the grid can go out and get a pole and can put in incredible laps. What makes people great and elite is performing at that level, but in every practice, every qualifying, every race, and I think that&#8217;s something that Max is able to do probably better than almost everyone.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I believe, whether it&#8217;s him or having a chance to go against Lewis [Hamilton] or Fernando [Alonso] any of the drivers that people know are some of the best, I think it&#8217;s a cool opportunity for me, at the same time, so excited for whatever may come my way in the future.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Max Verstappen provided a blunt response to questions about his Formula 1 future amid growing speculation linking him with a sensational switch to McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>During the Austrian Grand Prix weekend it emerged that Verstappen\u2019s management team had met with McLaren CEO Zak Brown in the paddock for what were described as being \u201cpreliminary talks\u201d about the possibility of a deal.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Four-time world champion Verstappen is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028 but has an exit clause in his current deal that would enable him to join another team in 2027 if he is not inside the top two in the drivers\u2019 championship by an unspecified date in August &#8211; believed to be during F1\u2019 summer break.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/xpb_1407343_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Brown has not completely shut the door on a move for Verstappen<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As things stand, the 28-year-old Dutchman is on course to trigger that clause barring a major form swing across the next three races &#8211; including this weekend\u2019s British Grand Prix.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The rumours of a possible move to McLaren at some point in the future were put to Verstappen during Thursday\u2019s media day at Silverstone, but he was in no mood to entertain such speculation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I&#8217;m not going to involve myself in that,&#8221; Verstappen told media, including <em>Crash.net<\/em>, when asked if there was any truth to the speculation.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-06bbccc9d45da1d1be764ad8de9758246f17ca5df960570a3c62014b1044512a\">  George Russell reveals bizarre dream and plans to \u2018steal\u2019 Landostand   &#8216;I would love Max Verstappen to be my team-mate&#8217; &#8211; Lando Norris reacts to McLaren rumours <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cI said what I wanted to say already before. If there&#8217;s something new or something that changes, you will hear it from me, not from someone else writing it, right? I just focus on the job that I have with my team. We are on the way up, so that&#8217;s really nice to see.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI had a really positive weekend in Austria, we just try to improve from there further. I know of course it can be quite tough, there&#8217;s a lot of competition. But yeah, we are here just to try and go faster.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><strong>\u2018A lot of drivers want to come to McLaren!\u2019\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Reigning world champion Lando Norris was also asked about the meeting between McLaren and Verstappen\u2019s management during the earlier FIA drivers\u2019 press conference on Thursday.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-55b71e05f219f8ebbe62050afb5d909be197de46f37ad09a37382644cb0b5f40\">  Why Max Verstappen to McLaren is \u2018a tough one to call\u2019, according to Jenson Button   First Look: McLaren unveils striking new livery for the F1 British Grand Prix <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&#8220;To be honest, a lot of drivers want to come to McLaren. So I don&#8217;t know why you just highlight Max!\u201d Norris joked in response. &#8220;There&#8217;s quite a few others that I know that want to come as well. I mean, it&#8217;s a cool thing.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s a good thing that a four-time world champion wants to come on board and wants to &#8211; potentially! &#8211; join the team. I don&#8217;t know how much of it&#8217;s true, but it&#8217;s a cool thing.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;And if there&#8217;s an opportunity for me to drive with other people, it&#8217;s something I&#8217;ve always looked forward to. But it&#8217;s not a thing for now. It&#8217;s not a serious thing. And I&#8217;m also just excited for my future with McLaren. I&#8217;m still going to be here for many, many more years.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1408659_hires_0.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Could Verstappen and Norris end up as F1 team-mates?<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A major complication to any potential deal is that both Norris and his current team-mate Oscar Piastri are tied down to long-term contracts with McLaren.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>One would have to make way in order for there to be space to accommodate Verstappen, with a possible seat swap involving Piastri mooted as a potential solution.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Asked if he would back himself to beat Verstappen if the pair were teamed up, Norris replied: &#8220;I do believe I can &#8211; I think we just have to just word it carefully &#8211; beat any driver.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think what makes Max so incredible is how he is over the course of a season. Every single weekend, performing to the level that he does, is what&#8217;s impressive.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think a lot of drivers on the grid can go out and get a pole and can put in incredible laps. What makes people great and elite is performing at that level, but in every practice, every qualifying, every race, and I think that&#8217;s something that Max is able to do probably better than almost everyone.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I believe, whether it&#8217;s him or having a chance to go against Lewis [Hamilton] or Fernando [Alonso] any of the drivers that people know are some of the best, I think it&#8217;s a cool opportunity for me, at the same time, so excited for whatever may come my way in the future.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/f1\/news\/1099987\/1\/max-verstappen-issues-blunt-response-mclaren-f1-switch-speculation&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.crash.net\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-07\/xpb_1422103_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] Max Verstappen issues blunt response to McLaren F1 switch speculation Max Verstappen was not in the mood to talk about rumours linking him with McLaren. Lewis Larkam , Adam Cooper 02 Jul 2026 Share Verstappen has been linked with McLaren Add as a preferred source Max Verstappen provided a blunt response to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-2023645","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2023645","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2023645"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2023645\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2023645"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2023645"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2023645"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}